In a slot machine, players insert cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, paper tickets with barcodes, into designated slots. The machine then activates reels, which stop to reveal symbols and credit winnings based on the paytable. Symbols can vary from classic objects like fruit and bells to stylized lucky sevens. Depending on the game, a player can earn credits from multiple combinations of symbols, or from bonus features. Many slot games have a theme, and symbols, payouts and bonus features are aligned with that theme.
In addition to displaying what a player can win for landing matching symbols on a payline, a pay table typically shows the slot’s rules, including betting requirements, paylines and the potential RTP rate. It also displays how many symbols are needed to trigger a bonus feature, what the potential prizes are and jackpot amounts. Some slot games also include information on other special symbols, like scatters and wilds, and what they do.
The pay table is usually displayed on the screen of the slot, near the bottom. It can be accessed by clicking an icon that looks like a pay table. The information is clearly presented, though it may be difficult to read if you aren’t familiar with reading these types of tables. Even experienced slot players sometimes neglect to check the pay table before playing a game, but it’s a good idea to do so. In a crowded casino, it is wise to play only one machine at a time — pumping coins into two or more machines can create confusion about which machines are paying out.